What Causes the Dull Thudding Noise from Slightly Bumpy Shock Absorbers?
2 Answers
Shock absorbers produce a dull thudding noise on slight bumps due to: 1. Damaged shock absorber plane bearing; 2. Loose lower control arm ball joint; 3. Excessive clearance from worn stabilizer bushings. The troubleshooting steps for this issue are: 1. Check for shock absorber oil leakage; 2. Identify which suspension component is generating the abnormal sound; 3. Press down on the upper part of each wheel's suspension to locate the faulty shock absorber; 4. Replace the defective shock absorber. Shock absorbers function to dampen oscillations from spring rebound after absorbing vibrations and mitigate road impacts, accelerating the attenuation of frame and body vibrations to enhance vehicle ride comfort.
I've also encountered the issue of the shock absorber making a thumping noise over slight bumps while driving. After checking, I found the main cause was loose bushings or mounting bolts on the shock absorber. Over time, rubber aging or vibrations from bumpy roads can loosen these components, creating noise. If ignored, the noise can worsen and even affect suspension stability, increasing body shake during turns. Last time I went to the repair shop, it was resolved by spending a small amount to replace the bushings. I recommend paying attention to unusual sounds while driving and having technicians inspect the suspension system during regular maintenance to prevent issues. Especially on rainy days when roads are slippery, the noise may become more frequent, so it's better to get it repaired early for safety.
